Feyenoord believes that this latest Robin van Persie reunion with the former striker will bring Eredivisie success. Any major midseason change can prove challenging. But they currently sit in third. The club is in a close battle for the top Europa League spot. Only three points separate them and AZ Alkmaar in sixth. This year is about ensuring that they finish in the top four.
However, the hire is about being able to mount serious competition for a league title. Many would pick Ajax or PSV Eindhoven annually. But RVP looks to ensure that it’s his side left standing for years to come.
Foundation of Robin van Persie Reunion
The all-time leading international Dutch scorer takes on a new challenge in his football career. His recent managerial experience saw him lead Heerenveen. His first senior-level experience in charge resulted in a ninth-place position.
Before leaving, van Persie saw mixed results. Although they pulled off a solid win over PSV, the side also saw a 9-1 thrashing to AZ. This new landing spot will require more consistency from the on-field product.
However, he will likely receive some extended grace if things don’t immediately look good. The club may be making a fresh hire, but this Robin van Persie reunion is exactly that. It’s a relationship that has seen many years together.
The forward has a combined 98 appearances and 35 goals during two playing stints. Furthermore, RVP assisted and managed at the club’s youth levels. Following retirement, the Dutch international started to learn the coaching ropes directly at these youth levels in the all-too-familiar Rotterdam grounds.
It can often be difficult for great former players to make the managerial transition. This is why having a good staff surrounding someone new to the craft is critical. Ultimately, final decisions will rest on the man in charge’s shoulders. Therefore, the credit or blame will also be assigned to him. However, advice and counsel can help avoid major roadblocks.
Club Taking the Right Steps to Ensure Robin van Persie Reunion Success
Adding René Hake will undoubtedly help. The long-time assistant has been on many teams’ sidelines and training grounds. He brings a lot of experience. His most immediate stop was with Ten Hag at Manchester United. However, his vast Eredivisie experience includes the Go-Ahead Eagles, Utrecht, and FC Twente.
The former striker has extensive football knowledge and a solid coaching foundation. However, he is also growing within the role. As mentioned, having someone like Hake to lean on can only help as they tackle the challenge for Feyenoord together.
Their immediate concern will be warding off league competition from teams lower than them in the Eredivisie standings. But they will also need to have a good showing in their Champions League matchup.
Stadion Feijenoord will host the first leg of their Round of 16 encounter with Inter Milan. A good performance could see Feyenoord in a position to advance against their soon-to-be Italian counterparts.
Either way, fans should exercise caution. This Robin van Persie reunion is exciting. But it will be important to temper expectations in domestic and European competitions as the beloved former striker settles into the demands of his new job. He’s likely to approach this challenge with the same intensity and passion as he always showed on the pitch. Give him time; the results will come.
